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BORN
06/24/1933
DIED
01/22/2026
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Kadlec Obituary
Bob pursued his education in engineering at the University of Toronto, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in the energy sector. In 1963, he moved to Vancouver to take on the role of President and CEO of BC Gas, a position in which he made a lasting impact through his steady leadership and vision. Over the years, Bob also served on numerous boards, including the Bank of Montreal, Vancouver International Airport, and chaired several industry associations, most notably the Canadian Gas Association. His insight and guidance helped shape organizations and communities across the region.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bob embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid tennis player who greatly cherished his time on the court and the camaraderie of his tennis buddies. A lifelong sports fan, he also loved sailing and travelled extensively, always curious about the world and eager for new experiences.
Above all else, Bob was a devoted family man. He shared a loving marriage of 65 years with his wife, Bobbie, a partnership defined by loyalty, respect, and enduring love. He was a proud father to his son Doug and daughter Karen ( Mike) and a deeply devoted grandfather to his four grandsons, Jamie, Keegan, Kelly, and Cache. They brought him immense joy and pride.
Bob will be remembered for his warmth, wisdom, and the meaningful connections he built throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friends he cherished, and the many lives he touched.
To write a condolence to the family, please visit www.mckenziefuneralservices.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Paul Sugar Foundation or Charity of Your Choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Kadlec
3 Entries
Kristen Helssen
February 18, 2026
A picture that absolutely captures the essence of Bob. He was a powerfully generous and kind man. He remembered everyones name and their story. Enduring, quality, kind person who taught me the value of being social while also living w integrity. He wasn´t in my everyday life but his presence in my parents lives will be missed and on all the special occasions that I always saw him at. So many things I will miss....His loyalty. His endurance. His laugh. His storytelling. His hugs. His Kindness.
He certainly lived a life that was full and he most certainly did it his way.
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Bill Watt
February 6, 2026
I was friends with Bob for 43 years. I always like to remind him when he would get lippy, that I had saved his life when I followed him into the washroom at the Val d'Isere in Whistler.
Bob had gotten up from the table and headed for the washroom, never saying a word. I had to do the Heimlich on Bob. Bob claimed I cracked a few ribs - I didn't
He would then counter with, my lawyer was supposed to have sued you for breaking my ribs . Remind me to call him.
I would then remind Bob that the woman I had saved a few years earlier by doing the Heimlich, sent me a lovely note and I didn't have to chase her into the bathroom, and my dinner didn't get cold.
Bob truly was a titan of industry, he had a P.Eng from U of T and had an MBA from Western, and every field person at BC Gas I met (where Bob was President ) called him Bob.
Bob was on the Board of Mutual Life when I worked there and he visited all the lower mainland offices to meet the staff. I remember him introducing himself to every single person in the Group Benefits , Pension, and Disability Claims Departments and asking them about their jobs.
Bob spent hours that day walking around and meeting people. Some of these people had worked at Mutual Life for over 20 years and had never met their Divisional Vice President, but they all met Bob.
Ask yourself how many of today's Board members would ever consider doing something like that?
Much to my delight I was later chastised by my Manager for calling Bob, Bob when he visited.
He was a great friend, and I miss him.
Bill Watt
Judy Savage
February 5, 2026
Dear Kadlec Family,
We were deeply saddened to hear of Bob´s passing. Please accept our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this time of loss. Bob will be remembered with great respect and gratitude for his many contributions over the years.
Most recently, Bob´s involvement as a member of the Campaign Cabinet for the Paul Myers Tower reflected his ongoing commitment to Lions Gate Hospital and to strengthening care for our community. His participation made a meaningful difference, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
We are also sincerely grateful for the generosity shown by both Bob and Bobbie. Their support has played an important role in advancing care at LGH, and we are truly thankful for the difference they have made.
Please know that our thoughts are with you, and we hope you find comfort in the many lives Bob touched through his dedication and kindness.
With warm regards,
Judy Savage
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McKenzie Funeral ServicesSuite 200 - 100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2